Judges 8:29
Gideon, who is sometimes referred to by the name Jerubbaal, has recently subdued the Midianites with a mighty display of God’s power. *Then Jerubbaal the son of Joash went and lived in his own house (v.29)* indicates that after this great victory recorded earlier in the chapter, Gideon returned to a private life, suggesting a period of rest and normalcy. Gideon’s residence was in the area of Ophrah, likely located in the territory of the tribe of Manasseh, which was a region west of the Jordan River. The peaceful return to his home underscores a contrast with the period of conflict he had just experienced, where he had led Israel into freedom. In many ways, this transition can be a reminder of how God grants rest to His people following seasons of intense trials (Matthew 11:28, NASB-95).
*Then Jerubbaal the son of Joash went and lived in his own house (v.29)* also emphasizes the personal identity of Gideon as the son of Joash, firmly rooting him in Israel’s tribal society around the late 12th to early 11th century BC. Gideon’s role as a judge was crucial during a time when Israel lacked a centralized government and frequently faced oppression from neighboring peoples (Judges 2:16, NASB-95). Through his life, Gideon models trust in God’s deliverance, even when odds are severely against His people. By calling him Jerubbaal, the text recalls how Gideon had torn down the altar of the Canaanite deity, Baal, demonstrating complete devotion to the God of Israel (Judges 6:32, NASB-95).
Furthermore, when *Then Jerubbaal the son of Joash went and lived in his own house (v.29)* tells us Gideon “went and lived in his own house,” it gives a sense of security that Israel enjoyed shortly after the deliverance was accomplished. Although the victory included a large-scale conflict, the verse pictures a moment of stability, an interval where Gideon’s leadership brings peace to the land. This theme of rest previews a deeper spiritual rest that was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who offers peace not only from earthly turmoil but from the burden of sin (Hebrews 4:9-10, NASB-95).
Gideon settles back into everyday life after his victory.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- Judges 1:8-10 meaning. The sons of Judah capture Jerusalem, defeating its inhabitants and setting the city on fire. They then continue their campaign against the Canaanites in various regions, ultimately conquering Hebron and defeating its notable inhabitants, Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai.
- Deuteronomy 17:8-13 meaning. Moses advises local judges to appeal to the Levitical priests or to the judge in office at the central sanctuary in order to seek guidance when some cases seem too difficult for them to handle.
- Deuteronomy 29:9-15 meaning. Moses described the parties that were about to enter into this additional covenant between the Suzerain (Ruler) God and the Israelites. This covenant will establish them as His treasured possession, as He swore to Israel’s ancestors.